One-Car Accident in Berkeley Results in DUI, Other Charges for Driver

On Friday June 20, 21-year-old Anthony Edward Torpey of Castro Valley was arrested following a one-car crash in which his Corvette slammed into a pole near the Claremont Hotel, according to the Contra Costa Times.

The crash, which occurred just before 2:30 a.m. on Tunnel Road, left Torpey’s 24-year-old passenger critically injured. Torpey fled the accident scene on foot, but was located by police just a short distance away. The passenger in the Corvette suffered such serious injuries that a fatal accident investigation team was summoned to the scene.

Tunnel Road is a major artery that feeds traffic into Berkeley from Highway 24, according to the report which said that the road was closed in both east and westbound directions for nearly five hours. The eastbound lane remained closed until almost noon.

Torpey’s passenger was listed in critical condition after being taken to Highland Hospital in Oakland for treatment of his injuries. Torpey was arrested for felony hit and run, felony DUI, battery on a police officer, and driving on a suspended license. According to the California DMV, Torpey had a number of past convictions include reckless driving, hit and run, and speeding. At last report he was being held in lieu of a $91,200 bail in Berkeley City Jail.

Michigan DUI attorneys understand the seriousness of being charged with a drunken driving offense, however the situation becomes far more serious when someone is severely injured. A first DUI offense typically leaves the offender facing up to 93 days in jail (though jail time is rarely served for a first offense), fines of up to $500, driver’s license suspension for 30 days, community service, and other penalties depending on the case.

An OUIL (Operating Under the Influence of Liquor) causing serious bodily injury charge leaves the offender facing far more serious consequences. In this situation, fines increase to amounts of up to $5,000, and incarceration time increases to up to 5 years in prison. In addition, the offender’s vehicle may be forfeited. Either way, a DUI or DUI causing injury can result not only in criminal penalties, but damage to the offender’s reputation and career as well.

Regardless of how serious the situation may seem, it is vital that anyone arrested for driving under the influence work with a skilled and aggressive Michigan DUI lawyer. While the primary goal is to have the defendant found not guilty or have charges dismissed, there are other legal options which may provide for a good outcome as well.